Bishkek (AKIpress) - Up to 40,000 Kiwis are affected by a worldwide recall of nearly 7 million Toyota vehicles - one of the largest global recalls in the auto industry.

The New Zealand owners will receive a letter informing them of faulty steering or seating, Toyota New Zealand said on Wednesday.

The auto giant said 200,000 cars in the Oceania region, out of 6.86 million worldwide, were affected by a spiral cable recall.

Tens of thousands of other vehicles in New Zealand were also in need of replacements for parts such as seat rails, steering column brackets and telescopic steering adjustments.

Toyota New Zealand customer services manager Spencer Morris said he estimated about 30,000 to 40,000 New Zealanders would be affected.

Morris said the recall was a precautionary step.

He said there have been no reported instances of accidents or incidents related to any of these recalls.

“While we do apologise for any concern and inconvenience caused to our customers, Toyota is ensuring any possible quality issues are addressed before problems arise… In every case the remedy is free of charge to customers.”

Anyone concerned about their vehicle can contact Toyota New Zealand on 0800 TOYOTA or contact their dealer.

Toyota Motor Corporation, the world's biggest automaker, said the recall tally was preliminary and subject to review until a formal announcement in Japan later on Wednesday.